Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy can be scary. However, it isn't always a sign of trouble. Bleeding in the first trimester (weeks one through 12) is common, and most women who experience bleeding during pregnancy go on to deliver healthy babies.

Still, it's important to take vaginal bleeding during pregnancy seriously. Sometimes vaginal bleeding during pregnancy indicates an impending miscarriage or a condition that needs prompt treatment. By understanding the most common causes of vaginal bleeding during pregnancy, you'll know what to look for — and when to contact your health care provider.

Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy has many causes. Some are serious, and many aren't.

It's important to report any vaginal bleeding during pregnancy —other than bloody show — to your health care provider. Be prepared to describe how much blood you passed, what it looked like, and whether it included any clots or tissue.

1st trimester

During the first trimester (weeks one through 12):

Tell your health care provider at your next prenatal visit if you have spotting or light vaginal bleeding that goes away within a day

Contact your health care provider within 24 hours if you have any amount of vaginal bleeding that lasts longer than a day

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